Photo By Emily McCamy | The sign for Guantanamo Bay's Iguana Xing. Iguana Xing offers a cozy atmosphere where...... read more read more
Subscribe
By Staff Sgt. Emily Russell
Joint Task Force Guantanamo, Public Affairs
GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA – If you're looking for a place to spend time with friends in a relaxed environment that won't put a dent in your wallet, look no further than the Iguana Xing (Crossing).
Located at the top of Chapel hill, across from the main Naval Station Chapel, the Iguana Xing offers a cozy atmosphere where anyone can kick back and relax. There, you can watch a movie, study, enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee or use the computers which are less restricted than at other public facilities.
"It's really relaxing," said Chief Petty Officer Mark DeLeon. "You can have a conversation or enjoy a game with a small group of individuals. It's totally different than a work atmosphere."
"I spend time there because it (provides a place) to meet people I may not have met and it's a quiet place to just relax," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Sarah Carter. "The air conditioning is cold, the coffee is great and it gets me out of my room. It's a great place to share a laugh."
The Iguana Xing is a safe, clean environment for Troopers who are not of legal drinking age, or those who choose to be in an alcohol free setting.
"It's a great place to just be yourself without the influence of alcohol," said Carter, "(It) alleviates the awkwardness of drunk people."
Support groups often use the space at the Iguana Xing and anyone can request to reserve the space for a group function.
"There is religious intent here, not that anyone is preaching, emphasized Chaplain David Mowbray, "but it's an environment to provide outreach to the community. You may not get a (Trooper) to come to chapel but he might be comfortable coming here."
With its bright colored walls and historic photos of Guantanamo Bay, the Iguana Xing has a coffee bar, and occasionally offers other treats when available. Volunteers and visitors often bring food to share, at no cost to others.
Because of the rotational nature of Troopers deployments and military work schedules for many of the volunteers, more volunteers are needed and encouraged to help out.
"I'm looking for someone who is willing to help manage the staff and give suggestions to make this place better," said Mowbray.
| Date Taken: | 06.06.2008 |
| Date Posted: | 06.09.2008 09:02 |
| Story ID: | 20249 |
| Location: |
| Web Views: | 166 |
| Downloads: | 142 |
This work, Come One, Come All, by Emily McCamy, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
No keywords found.
